General
salty language
What does salty language mean?
Coarse or profane language, the kind picked up over years at sea or in the ranks.
"Watch the salty language around the new recruits."
Origin
US Navy and Marine slang.
Frequently asked questions
What is salty language?
It's coarse or profane speech — swearing and foul talk of the kind associated with experienced sailors and service members.
Why is it called 'salty'?
'Salty' describes someone seasoned by long time at sea or in the ranks, so 'salty language' is the rough talk picked up over that experience.
Does 'salty' always mean profanity?
In this phrase it refers to foul language, though 'salty' can also describe a person who is bitter, jaded, or crustily experienced.
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